This sentiment is hardly new. Whenever elderly care is discussed, it seems to be framed as a zero-sum debate where policymakers are stuck between the dilemma of tax increases or welfare cuts. This overlooks the dual economic role of senior citizens as consumers and contributors.
Investing in their well-being and engagement could transform this demographic into a driving force for Hong Kong’s economy, creating mutual benefits rather than austerity trade-offs.
Hong Kong’s “ageing in place” policy – a cost-efficient policy that emphasises home-based care over institutional support – has been in place since 2009. We calculate that delaying nursing home entry by one year saves about HK$235,930 per person in public funds.
Yet in reality, Hong Kong’s policy remains focused on reactive elderly support rather than proactive investments in seniors’ health and autonomy. Sixteen years after the idea of ageing in place was raised, our government still allocates, by our calculations, over twice as much funding to institutional care than community services.
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‘Is this love?’ asks Hong Kong husband caring for wife with Alzheimer’s disease
‘Is this love?’ asks Hong Kong husband caring for wife with Alzheimer’s disease
